Operational integration management (OIM) in the school setting: Aims and experiences of employees at schools in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany
Results of a qualitative study
Objective
The aim of this study was to identify measures relevant for the successful implementation of Operational Integration Management (OIM) in schools. The goals of sick school employees or OIM-participants, on the one hand, and OIM-supporting school principals, on the other, associated with the procedure were investigated, as were factors contributing to success or obstacles to the implementation of the procedure.
Method
As a prelude to an ongoing evaluation process, guided interviews were conducted in 2018 with 11 school employees (6 school principals, 1 head of seminar, 3 teachers, 1 pedagogical specialist) from Rhineland-Palatinate with experiences in OIM that stem from procedures the study participants have gone through, have accompanied or have rejected. The interview material was analysed with techniques of qualitative content analysis in 2022 according to the aim of this study.
Results
The school principals and OIM-participants mentioned the central goals pursued by OIM procedures as the return to work and the reflective or accepting handling of illness. Important parameters were the explicit willingness of those involved to return or support the OIM and a high degree of self-reflection. The perceived ability to act was also important. This was supported by available procedural information and (in)formal support resources. OIM-participants and school principals must be prepared to pursue common goals and not insist simply on their own rights. The involvement of other actors with their specific competencies can be helpful and necessary if the participants reach their limits of negotiation in the intra-school relationship.
Conclusion
OIM procedures and in particular, measures for stepwise reintegration are valued by OIM-participants and school principals as support measures that can facilitate the permanent return to work. Those involved in OIM reach their limits where expectations are unreasonable. In this respect, the procedure itself can ultimately be nothing more (and nothing less) than an opportunity to consistently follow the path to a common compromise. A trusting cooperation also helps to reduce widespread uncertainties in dealing with illness. The participation of OIM experienced actors from different areas of expertise can bring resources to light and promote the development of solutions.
